The Brewster family comes to Castro Valley at the Chanticleers Theatre in the classic comedy "Arsenic and Old Lace." The famous Frank Capra movie of the same name starring Cary Grant has been a long-time favorite for theatre and movie-goers. This hilarious farce, written by Joseph Kesselring and directed by Michael Sally, opens Friday night, May 21, at the Chanticleers Community Theatre.

This is a story about two seemingly harmless old ladies who entertain, then poison lonely gentlemen callers. The spinster Brewster sisters, Abby and Martha, are played by newcomer, Patricia Inabnet and Chanticleers board member, Susan Hohl. The show becomes frantic when their nephew, Mortimer Brewster, played by Craig Eychner, finds out what his aunts are up to. Mortimer tries to save his aunts from the law as a result of their nasty habit, all the while trying to keep up a normal front with his fiancˇe, Elaine, played by Laura Morgan.

Other eccentric characters in this farcical script include brothers, Teddy and Jonathan Brewster, played by Michael Fay and Ralph Marinaro; and Dr. Einstein, played by J. Vincent Burke. The rest of the madcap cast includes Martin Waldron, Rob Mueller, David Weiner, Daniel Roberts, Sean Beecroft, and John Blytt.

Theatre goers attending the show on Friday, May 21, will be treated to Chanticleers' Opening Night Gala after the show, including complimentary champagne and hors d'oeuvres. And something new at Chanticleers, Director Michael Sally and the cast are doing a Talk-Back session for audience members after the 2:00 p.m., Sunday matinee performance on June 6. This is your chance to ask questions and hear special behind-the-scenes tidbits from the director and the entire cast.

Doors open a half hour prior to performances. For reservations call 510-SEE-LIVE (510-733-5483). Ticket prices are $18 general, $15 students and seniors (55+), and bargain night pricing of $13 for all seats on Friday, May 28.